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A brindle mixed-breed puppy sleeps on a woven rug in front of a fireplace with four knitted stockings on the mantel. 13 / 21

Four Stockings Hung Above Her, and the Puppy Below Didn't Stir

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Four knitted stockings hang from the mantel, one in red, one in green, one in red and white stripes, and one in cream cable knit, and below them a brindle puppy sleeps curled on a woven rug. Her face rests on her paws, her eyes are closed, and her wiry coat catches the late-day sun. A white fireplace and a bright window sit behind her, and some toys are scattered near the wall.

Puppies need a lot of sleep, often eighteen hours or more each day, and quiet naps help them grow and learn. A mixed-breed rescue puppy can have a coat of many colors and a personality full of surprises. If a young dog sleeps in a busy room, make sure she has a calm area when she needs it. If she lies near a hearth, check that no fire is lit and a sturdy screen is in place. Stockings are best kept out of reach so she cannot pull them down and chew the contents, which can include unsafe treats.

She sleeps through the whole scene without a single twitch. The stockings are patient, the room is warm, and all is quiet. The big day is coming, but for now, she is sleeping through the very best part, dreaming of whatever puppies dream about. Every few moments her ear twitches, as if the dream has a faint jingle in it.

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